Utility crews from across the United States and Canada are working diligently to restore power in Michigan following severe winds that led to significant outages throughout the state. Wind gusts reaching nearly 60 mph have adversely affected thousands of customers, particularly in northwestern and mid-Michigan areas.
Consumers Energy announced that it anticipates restoring power to all customers impacted by the storm by the end of the day. To aid in the recovery, additional crews from Texas, Alabama, Maryland, and even Canada have joined local teams in conducting round-the-clock restoration efforts.
“Understanding the challenges our customers have faced over the last few days, we genuinely appreciate their patience as our crews work tirelessly to restore power,” Norm Kapala, a Consumers Energy officer overseeing the restoration, stated.
While conditions have improved, Kapala cautioned residents to remain vigilant, as downed trees and branches continue to pose risks on roadways. The utility company has urged the public to maintain a safe distance of at least 25 feet from any downed power lines and to promptly report unsecured lines by contacting 911 and Consumers Energy at 800-477-5050. They also emphasized that false reports of downed lines can hinder restoration efforts.
Furthermore, Consumers Energy has issued warnings regarding the dangers of using generators in enclosed spaces, such as garages, basements, and patios due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
This collaborative effort of utility workers from multiple states demonstrates the strong support and solidarity that exists in the face of natural disasters, emphasizing the resilience of communities coming together to overcome challenges.